Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumMaterial Properties

During the assembly of a metal aircraft framework, a technician uses a pneumatic hammer to strike the unheaded end of a solid metal rivet. The repeated impacts successfully flatten the end of the cylinder to form a permanent locking head without cracking or splintering the material. Which material property primarily allows the rivet to undergo this permanent deformation under compressive force?

  1. A
    Hardness
  2. MalleabilityAnswer
  3. C
    Ductility
  4. D
    Elasticity

Answer

The correct property is malleability.
Malleability is the physical property that allows a solid to bend or be hammered into other shapes without breaking. Because the pneumatic hammer applies compressive stress to flatten the rivet, malleability is the exact property required for this process.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the type of force being applied in the scenario.
The pneumatic hammer applies a crushing, compressive force to the rivet.
Different material properties govern how a substance reacts to different types of applied forces (e.g., tension vs. compression).
2
Analyze the required outcome of the deformation.
The rivet must flatten into a new shape permanently (plastic deformation) without breaking or cracking.
If the deformation were temporary, the rivet would not lock the joint. If the material fractured, the joint would fail.
3
Match the observed behavior to the corresponding material property definitions.
The ability to deform plastically under compressive stress without fracturing defines malleability.
This distinguishes it from ductility (tensile stress) and elasticity (temporary deformation).

Key Concept

Malleability vs. other structural material properties
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Rate this question

Topics

Material Properties

More questions from this topic